Urinary Bladder Cancer
Urinary bladder cancer refers to the development of cancerous cells in the tissues of the bladder. The bladder is an organ located in the lower abdomen that stores urine until it is expelled from the body through the urethra.
Most bladder cancers originate in the cells that line the inside of the bladder, known as urothelial cells or transitional cells. However, bladder cancer can also develop in other types of cells in the bladder, such as squamous cells or glandular cells, although these cases are less common.
The exact causes of bladder cancer are not fully understood, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing the disease. These risk factors include:
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Smoking: Tobacco smoke contains harmful chemicals that can accumulate in the urine and affect the bladder lining, increasing the risk of cancer.
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Exposure to certain chemicals: Occupational exposure to certain chemicals, such as aromatic amines found in certain dyes, paints, and solvents, can elevate the risk of bladder cancer.
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Age and gender: Bladder cancer is more common in older adults, with the average age of diagnosis being around 73. Men are more likely than women to develop bladder cancer.
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Chronic bladder inflammation: Long-term urinary infections or irritations, such as from recurrent urinary tract infections or the prolonged use of catheters, can increase the risk of bladder cancer.
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Personal or family history: Individuals with a previous history of bladder cancer or a family history of the disease have a higher risk of developing bladder cancer.
The symptoms of bladder cancer may include blood in the urine (hematuria), frequent urination, pain during urination, urinary urgency, and pelvic pain. However, these symptoms can also be caused by other non-cancerous conditions, so it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
The diagnosis of bladder cancer typically involves various tests, including urine analysis, imaging tests (such as CT scan or MRI), and cystoscopy, which involves inserting a thin tube with a camera into the bladder to examine its interior.
The treatment of bladder cancer depends on the stage and grade of the cancer, as well as the individual's overall health. Treatment options may include surgery to remove cancerous tissue, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these approaches.
Regular follow-up care and monitoring are important for individuals with bladder cancer to detect any recurrence or new developments and to ensure the effectiveness of treatment. It's also crucial to adopt a healthy lifestyle, including avoiding tobacco products, eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and managing stress to support overall well-being and reduce the risk of cancer.
Surgery for Urinary bladder tumors
The surgical approach for bladder cancer depends on various factors such as the stage and extent of the cancer, as well as the individual's overall health and preferences. Here are the common surgical procedures used for treating bladder cancer:
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Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT): This is the most common initial surgical procedure for early-stage bladder cancer. During a TURBT, a cystoscope (a thin tube with a camera) is inserted through the urethra into the bladder. The surgeon then removes the cancerous tumor or tumors from the bladder lining using specialized instruments. TURBT is performed under general or spinal anesthesia and does not require any external incisions.
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Partial Cystectomy: In some cases where the tumor is larger or more invasive but still confined to a specific area of the bladder, a partial cystectomy may be performed. This procedure involves removing a portion of the bladder containing the tumor while preserving as much healthy bladder tissue as possible. The remaining bladder is then reconstructed to restore its normal function. Partial cystectomy is usually considered for selected cases and may require additional treatments like radiation or chemotherapy.
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Radical Cystectomy: This surgical procedure involves the complete removal of the bladder and nearby lymph nodes. It is usually performed for more advanced bladder cancers or when other treatments have not been effective. In men, the prostate gland and seminal vesicles are typically removed along with the bladder, while in women, the uterus, ovaries, and part of the vagina may also be removed. In both genders, a new way for urine storage and elimination needs to be created, which may involve creating a urinary diversion. This can be in the form of an ileal conduit, where a small portion of the small intestine is used to divert urine to a stoma on the abdomen, or a neobladder, where a new bladder is created from a portion of the intestine to allow for more natural urine elimination through the urethra.
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Lymphadenectomy: In conjunction with cystectomy, the surgeon may perform a lymphadenectomy to remove nearby lymph nodes. This helps determine the extent of the disease and may reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
These surgical procedures are major operations that require hospitalization and a recovery period. The specific surgical approach chosen depends on the individual's condition and the recommendation of the healthcare team.
It's important to note that each case is unique, and the choice of surgical procedure should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional who can assess the individual's specific condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.